Donald Trump has appointed former Democratic Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard as his incoming Director of National Intelligence. Gabbard, who is known for her opposition to U.S. support for Ukraine and her controversial meeting with Syria’s President Bashar al-Assad, has been a vocal critic of U.S. foreign policy and has consistently advocated for an isolationist approach.
Trump expressed confidence in Gabbard’s abilities, stating that her “fearless spirit” and extensive career would make her a strong addition to the intelligence community. Gabbard, in return, thanked the president-elect for the opportunity, expressing her eagerness to contribute to the safety and security of the American people.
Gabbard, a former Hawaii congresswoman and one-time presidential candidate, switched allegiance from the Democratic Party earlier this year, offering her support to Trump and even assisting him in preparing for debates. Her decision to back Trump was seen as a strategic move, as many expected her to be rewarded with a key position in his administration.
Throughout her political career, Gabbard has held isolationist views, and she has previously embraced several controversial stances, including making unfounded claims about U.S.-sponsored biolabs in Ukraine—a narrative that has been associated with Russian propaganda. She also called for the withdrawal of U.S. military forces from Iraq and Syria during her 2020 presidential campaign.
Gabbard’s political journey has been marked by moments of controversy, including a 2017 meeting with Syrian President Bashar al-Assad amid the country’s brutal civil war. These actions, along with her foreign policy views, have generated significant debate and positioned her as a polarizing figure in American politics.
